Sturgis Rally Tips for First-Timers
The Sturgis Motorcycle Rally is one of the largest and most revered rallies in the world, and for good reason. It started in 1938, when a group of Indian Motorcycle and Harley-Davidson riders in Rapid City and Sturgis, South Dakota, wanted to hold a race. Originally called the Black Hills Classic, it eventually grew into the event it is today.
With the sheer scale of the rally, I’m convinced there’s something for everyone. And if you’re not having a good time, you’re doing it wrong. Whether you want to be pampered in a decadent AirBnB or fancy hotel eating fine food, or prefer to be posted up at a rowdy campsite chowing down on chilli dogs and cheap beer, you’ll get your druthers at the Sturgis Rally as both options are readily available.
Where to Stay
The rally centers around the town of Sturgis but stretches for miles in every direction. When it comes to lodging, options consist of a hotel, short-term rental through providers like AirBnB, or camping. Each option varies quite a bit, so it’s important to identify your budget, along with the kind of vibe you’re looking for.
Hotels and AirBnBs
Most short-term rentals in the area book up about a year in advance, so you’ll need to plan ahead and act quickly. They are usually the most comfortable option if you’re staying for a week or more. Having a kitchen and a garage in central location comes at a price. I’ve heard of Sturgis homeowners covering their entire year’s mortgage with a one-week rental.
Hotels and motels also fill up quickly, but there are more options to choose from. There are plenty of clean, modern hotels in Rapid City, where rates are not quite as extreme as they are closer to Sturgis. Rapid City also offers better food options and more big-city amenities. Smaller motels are more likely to have rooms available throughout the week, and it’s not uncommon to see tents pitched on lawns around motel pools.
The nearby town of Deadwood also has several casino hotels with a large number of rooms. These book quickly as well and tend to be a little smokier than the hotels in Rapid City. But, you’re closer to the action and right in the middle of historic Deadwood — a town recently immortalized by a newly launched Harley-Davidson cruiser of the same name.
Campgrounds
There are plenty of larger campgrounds west of Sturgis, as you head toward the Buffalo Chip and a little farther north. Most of the larger sites offer RV hookups, shower facilities, and a food truck or restaurant on-site. You can typically rent a tipi or yurt (permanent tent structure), and some even have bunks with mattresses. Or, bring your own tent and gear for a more efficient setup.
The Sturgis Buffalo Chip Campground is really its own world. If you came to the rally and stayed within Buffalo Chip grounds the whole time, you would still have an awesome week. The venue features some of the biggest names in music all week long, and that same space also hosts some of the largest races held during the rally.
There are several campgrounds, ranging from more of a party scene at Camp Zero to a slightly quieter experience farther out on the main grounds. You can rent an RV with electric, septic, and air conditioning, or a small cabin with AC and two single beds. It’s an excellent option if you want to stay in the mix the whole time and never be far from your bed. If you want to go to bed early and sleep in late, this probably isn’t the best spot for you.
Essential Rides
Sturgis really is a rally for riders. You’ll find yourself on incredible roads with stunning views without even trying. There are some often-overlooked highways that will absolutely blow your mind.
Spearfish Canyon
The ride from Spearfish to Cheyenne Crossing is one of the most well-known routes in the area, and for good reason. Smooth roads wind tightly through steep cliffs, lined with tall trees and waterfalls. It’s almost a blessing that so many people take this road, because it forces you to slow down and appreciate the scenery. My advice: go early in the morning so you can enjoy a spirited ride, then come back in the afternoon or evening for a more relaxed lap to take it all in.
Pro tip: Stop at Lewie’s Burgers on your way to Deadwood from Cheyenne Crossing after the ride.
Devil’s Tower
There are a few ways to get to Devil’s Tower from Sturgis, but if you’re going straight there, head up through Belle Fourche so you approach from the north, then circle back down through Carlile Junction on your way home.
This national monument featured prominently in Close Encounters of the Third Kind is absolutely jaw-dropping, so don’t be surprised if you spot some UFO-loving folks mixed in with the biker crowd. Just remember that this is sacred ground to Native Americans, so be respectful and stay out of marked-off areas.
Iron Mountain Road and the Pigtails
If you do one big ride while you’re in the Black Hills, make it this one. Iron Mountain Road from Keystone will take you through some of the most incredible winding forest roads, interspersed with wooden overpasses and bridges that loop around and over the road like pigtails. It’s also my favorite way to see Mount Rushmore, since you get several perfect views without dealing with parking or the heavy tourist crowds.
The Doane Robinson Tunnel is carved through the mountain with a perfect view of the presidents as you pass through, and the Norbeck Overlook shortly after provides another great photo opportunity. If you’re heading out to Custer, this is the way to go.
Custer State Park and the Wildlife Loop
If you want to ride your motorcycle next to bison, Custer is the place to do it. You are almost guaranteed to see American buffalo, prairie dogs, and, if you’re lucky, a few pronghorn leaping around.
The loop itself is a mellow ride, and the town of Custer is nearby, with good restaurants and some nice shops.
Needles Highway
Out near Custer, and sort of on the way back if you’re heading to Sturgis, is Needles Highway. It twists and winds as it climbs and drops in elevation, all surrounded by massive gray rock spires. It’s otherworldly.
This is also home to Needle Eye Tunnel, a narrow pass between two massive rocks that you can ride through. Just be aware that traffic tends to back up as people stop to take photos at the Eye.
General Tips For Staying Out of Trouble
- Don’t drink and ride—at all: The cops here have been doing this for a long time. They know what they’re looking for, and they are quick to act. Better to ride during the day and park it when you’re ready to start partying.
- No apes above the shoulders: Police love to enforce this one. It’s often just an excuse to pull you over, so don’t give them one.
- Always wear eye protection: This is another one the cops will get you on almost every time and it’s easy to avoid.
- Don’t speed on the highways: They bring in officers from other counties to patrol the highways during rally week. I’ve been pulled over going 67 mph in a 65 mph zone.
- Be prepared for dirt detours: Detours are common, but the surface is usually hard-packed and rideable on a touring bike, as long as you commit and take your time.
Final Thoughts
The Sturgis Motorcycle Rally can be as laid-back or as wild as you want it to be, but the real payoff is the riding. Between the history, the Black Hills scenery, and the sheer energy of the event, there’s a reason so many riders keep coming back year after year. If you plan ahead, ride responsibly, and give yourself time to explore beyond the main strip, your first Sturgis experience can be one to remember.
Morgan Gales
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